Celtic Languages and Literature

Studies of Celtic culture, languages and literature encompass both historical and modern topics about Ireland, Scotland, Wales and other Celtic regions in the British Isles and France. Read on to learn more about an education and career in this field.

Inside Celtic Languages

The study of Celtic languages includes both ancient forms of speech once used in mainland Europe and the present-day languages of Ireland, Scotland and Wales. Celtic literature, with a rich history of oral storytelling and folklore, encompasses medieval Latin-tinged texts as well as present-day writings in Irish, Welsh, Breton and Scottish Gaelic. A degree in this field can lead to a variety of international study and work opportunities.

Education Information

With an increased interest in Celtic culture and history, many schools have added Celtic studies and/or expanded existing programs. Possible course topics include the literature and history of Ireland and Wales, as well as the languages of these countries. There are also courses in extinct languages such as Manx and Cornish. For undergraduates, Celtic studies could also be chosen as a minor for those majoring in anthropology, art history, linguistics and comparative literature.

Degree Options

Although degrees in Celtic studies are rare, an undergraduate degree in English, comparative languages or teaching with a minor in Celtic studies could lead to a career as a language teacher, translator or writer. A graduate degree in Celtic studies or in anthropology, comparative literature, linguistics, history or archaeology with a concentration in Celtic languages and literature could pave the way to a research career or teaching at the university level. Below are some articles with further information.

Certification Requirements

Graduates who've focused on Celtic languages might consider becoming a translator. Earning a certificate in translation provides entry into fields such as court reporting, writing and diplomacy. Foreign language teachers need teacher certification in the state where they will work. The following articles discuss some certification options.

Career Information

As discussed above, career options for students of Celtic literature and languages include interpreter, translator and language teacher. Interpreters facilitate communication among groups or individuals. They must be fluent in at least two languages, have an understanding of the cultures behind the languages and have an excellent memory.

Translators are generally more proficient with written languages. They, too, must be knowledgeable about the languages' cultures of origin, including current slang and expressions, as well as the ability to rephrase ideas that can't be translated literally. Colleges and universities as well as elementary, secondary, business and trade schools employ foreign-language teachers.

Research is another goal for students of Celtic languages and literature. Since these languages have been largely under-studied in comparison to other languages, there exists the exciting possibility for researchers to make a major discovery. Here are articles with information about various careers.

Employment and Salary Information

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), during the 2012-2022 decade, job growth for translators and interpreters will be 46%, much faster than the average for U.S. jobs (www.bls.gov). Post-secondary foreign language and literature teachers are expected to see an increase of 15% during the same period, although the best opportunities will be for non-tenured and part-time positions. The BLS also reports that in May 2013, the average wage for translators and interpreter was $47,920, while post-secondary teachers of language and literature earned an average of $66,300.